
Community identification
Cat flea (or generic flea)
Ctenocephalides felis
- Order & Family
- Order: Siphonaptera, Family: Pulicidae
- Size
- 1 to 3 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found on hosts such as cats, dogs, and other mammals, as well as in their bedding, carpets, and surrounding environment.
Diet & Feeding
Blood of mammals and birds
Behavior Patterns
Wingless insects known for powerful jumping abilities, spending most of their adult lives on a host feeding and reproducing.
Risks & Benefits
Can cause itchy bites, skin irritation, and transmit tapeworms or disease agents to pets and humans; minimal ecological benefit besides serving as food for some predators.